Type Ia Supernova

A Type Ia supernova is a powerful explosion that occurs in a binary star system, where one star is a white dwarf. When the white dwarf accumulates enough material from its companion star, it triggers a runaway nuclear reaction, causing it to explode. This explosion is incredibly bright, often outshining entire galaxies, and can be seen from great distances in the universe. Type Ia supernovae are important for astronomers because they serve as "standard candles," helping to measure astronomical distances and providing insights into the expansion of the universe.